One of the most obvious effects of aging is the expression lines on our face, volume loss and a feeling of tiredness in general expression. Botox and filler, the two most preferred methods in aesthetic dermatology, are quite successful in alleviating these effects. However, these two applications that are confused with each other actually work for completely different purposes and in different ways. It is important to know the differences between them in order to understand which method is right for you in skin rejuvenation.
Botox is actually derived from botulinum toxin, a protein. It works by temporarily stopping muscle contractions. In other words, it limits the movement of facial muscles. It is used to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles that form over time, especially in active areas of the face such as the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes. When Botox is applied, the muscle relaxes, the skin flattens and the lines lose their clarity.
Filling is an injection method used to add volume under the skin. The most commonly used filler is hyaluronic acid. This substance is naturally found in the skin and provides fullness, moisture and elasticity to the skin thanks to its water retention properties. With filling applications, volume loss, static wrinkles, sagging and pronounced lines on the face are corrected.
While Botox focuses on wrinkles that occur with movement, filler restores volume lost over time. For example, while lines between the eyebrows or wrinkles around the eyes are effectively treated with Botox, filler applications are preferred for hollowness in the nasolabial region (lines extending from the side of the nose to the lips) or for lip plumping.
The two applications also differ in terms of their effects. The effects of Botox usually start within 3-4 days and last between 4 and 6 months. In filler applications, the effects are seen immediately and last for an average of 9-12 months depending on the content of the product used. With some special fillers, this period can extend up to 18 months.
Botox provides more of a preventive effect. It slows down the deepening of expression lines, especially when applied at a young age. Filler, on the other hand, has a repair and reconstruction function. It provides a natural lifting effect in areas that become thinner, sag or lose volume over time.
They also differ in terms of application areas. While Botox is frequently used in the upper part of the face, namely the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the eyes, filler is preferred in areas such as the cheeks, around the lips, jawline, cheekbones, and under the eyes.
Another important difference is the method of application. While Botox is injected into the muscle with very fine needles, filler is applied to deeper tissues and areas requiring volume. Both applications are completed in a short time and you can return to your daily life immediately. However, it should always be applied by a specialist dermatologist. Because wrong product selection or incorrect technique can lead to unnatural appearances and undesirable results.
Botox and filler, when used together, provide more holistic and balanced results. For example, while Botox is applied to forehead lines, filler can be applied to cheeks or lips in the same session. In this way, both mimic-based and volume-based signs of aging are targeted at the same time.
These applications, which are planned by taking into account the changing needs of the skin with age, are very effective supports for a natural and healthy appearance. The most accurate step is to have a dermatologist evaluate which one is more suitable for you. Sometimes the best results can be achieved with just Botox, sometimes just filler, and sometimes a combination of the two.
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